I remember a BP episode from last year I believe about long distance investing and how important it is to establish your 'core 4' (think boots on the ground i.e.

It's pretty compelling once you throw all the numbers in and see the output.

I can be paranoid AF and so I need to find equally compelling alternative options.

Many of those people invested in rentals in core Seattle anticipating appreciation, and they don't need the cash flow to survive. 

High performing school districts in suburban areas, revitalizing neighborhoods in urban cores, waterfront properties in areas where water access fetches a premium are all solid candidate locations. 

It does not matter where you start as long as you develop your Core 4.

It may fall more into the core/ core plus area.

What you end up seeing is core property with core returns: 5-8%.

After spending a few hours delving deep into any/all posts that referenced Trenton, NJ, I was compelled to keep the discussion going.

I read these forums every day and I can't think of any compelling evidence that anyone has posted towards an economic recovery (maybe I missed that too).